VdA > Lisbon, Portugal > Firm Profile
VdA Offices
Rua Dom Luis I, 28
1200-151 Lisboa
Portugal
VdA > The Legal 500 Rankings
Portugal > Banking and finance Tier 1
With an excellent lender perspective of the market practice and relevant precedents, VdA advises on the entire spectrum of regulatory issues and transactions across the banking and finance space. The group, which stands out for its expertise in assisting banks in NPL deals and their deleveraging strategies, continues to act for Banco de Portugal and the Resolution Fund in matters involving the BES resolution and disposal of Novo Banco-related assets. The robust department is also called upon to advise on landmark financing deals, including sustainability-linked instruments, sectorial M&A and governance, fintech and payment services-related mandates. Chairing the group is Pedro Cassiano Santos, who enjoys a strong reputation among peers, clients and market regulators. He manages a balanced workload which features a mix of capital markets deals, structured finance and securitisations, and also leads the firm’s private banking arm. Hugo Moredo Santos is a key contact for banks and other credit institutions in the context of their ongoing activities in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa; he also focuses on structured and asset finance. Paula Gomes Freire, who was elected as the firm’s new managing partner in February 2022, is also active in the practice, while Pedro Simões Coelho heads up the investment funds and collective investment entities department, as well as the aviation group. Structured products, classic financings and asset-backed transactions are core areas of activity for Benedita Aires. Tiago Correia Moreira assists in fintech-related matters and NPL transactions.Practice head(s):
Pedro Cassiano Santos
Other key lawyers:
Paula Gomes Freire; Pedro Simões Coelho; Hugo Moredo Santos; Benedita Aires; Tiago Correia Moreira; Orlando Vogler Guiné; Maria Carrilho; Sebastião Nogueira
Testimonials
‘Very clear explanation of options and consequences when working on restructuring projects. Excellent engagement with Portuguese regulator. Top-level deadline management, last-minute workloads and interaction with UK counsel.’
‘Extremely professional but also personable. Great Portuguese NPL expertise. Special mentions to Tiago Correia Moreira and Sebastião Nogueira.’
‘I highlight the professionalism, know-how, proximity to the client and ability to simplify complex problems. This team/firm stands out from its competitors for its responsiveness and “uncomplicated” bureaucracy, in addition to its proximity to the client.’
‘Hugo Moredo dos Santos, Orlando Vogler Guiné possess a high level of knowledge of the subjects, ability to work and respond, flexibility and proximity.’
Key clients
StormHarbour Securities LLP and Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
Blackstone Group /BREDS– Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies; KSL Capital Partners
Grupo Arié
Deutsche Bank, AG (as Arranger and Noteholder)
Banco Comercial Português, S.A.
Tagus – Sociedade de Titularização de Créditos (“Tagus”).
Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A.
Banco Santander Totta, S.A.
GLQC S.À R.L.
Trevicalêndula, Lda.
Alantra (as Noteholder)
Work highlights
- Assisted Arrow Global Limited in a securitisation designated Project Themis, with the issue of €16.7m notes.
- Assisted 321 Crédito in a auto loan securitisation (Ulisses 3), which involved a €203.3m cash securitisation of auto loan credits originated by 321Crédito, Instituição Financeira de Crédito, S.A., with securitised bonds issued by TAGUS – Sociedade de Titularização de Créditos, S.A.
- Assisted Refundos in a multi-step transaction, including delisting of Maxirent fund units.
Portugal > Capital markets Tier 1
VdA houses a seasoned capital markets team, which is recognised for its strong credentials in all types of security work, including the national and international placement of both debt and equity. The group, which is closely tied in with the banking and finance practice, acts for an impressive roster of financial institutions and major companies across an array of sectors. Noted for its track record in asset-backed securities and securitisation transactions, the team was recently engaged in the two latest IPOs executed in the country, and a number of market-first deals, including the first issuance of green and sustainability-linked bonds in Portugal. Recent highlights also saw the department advise on share capital increases and rights issuances by listed entities. Pedro Cassiano Santos marries in-depth knowledge of debt, hybrid and equity instruments with significant experience in securitisations and structured finance transactions. He manages the practice with key support coming from Hugo Moredo Santos, who is singled out for his wealth of experience in retail bond issuances. Equity capital markets is an area of focus for José Pedro Fazenda Martins, who also advises on the admission to listing of financial instruments in the Portuguese market. Tiago Correia Moreira, a key contact for fintech-related matters and financial services regulatory issues, is especially active in NPL transactions, while managing associate Orlando Vogler Guiné maintains a broad practice, covering securities issues, derivatives and undertakings for collective investment.Practice head(s):
Pedro Cassiano Santos
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Hugo Moredo Santos stands out.’
Key clients
Greenvolt – Energias Renováveis, S.A.
Arrow Global Limited; Christofferson Robb & Company; Whitestar Asset Solutions, S.A., Hefesto, STC, S.A.
Crédit Agricole CIB
Mota-Engil, SGPS, S.A.
Unicre – Instituição Financeira de Crédito, S.A.
Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol, SAD
Haitong Bank, S.A.
Grupo Media Capital SGPS, S.A.
Oi, S.A.
Intesa
Arrow Global Limited
Brisa – Concessão Rodoviária, S.A.
Barclays Bank Ireland PLC and NatWest Markets N.V.
Banco Comercial Português, Caixa – Banco de Investimento, Crédit Agricole CIB and Deutsche Bank (as Joint Lead Managers)
Work highlights
- Acted as legal counsel to GreenVolt in the issuance of 17,792,576 new ordinary, book-entry and nominative shares, without nominal value, representing approximately 12.785 percent of the share capital of GreenVolt following the full subscription of the c.€100m share capital increase and with a subscription price of €5.62 each, with subscription reserved to GreenVolt’s shareholders in the exercise of their respective legal pre-emptive rights and to other investors who have acquired subscription rights.
- Advised Mota-Engil SGPS, S.A. and coordinated all parties involved in the public subscription offering launched by Mota-Engil representative of the bond issue denominated “Obrigações Ligadas a Sustentabilidade Mota-Engil 2021-2026” combined with two exchange offers.
- Advised Arrow Global Limited and Christofferson Robb & Company on a complex English law financing restructuring transaction secured over a wide range of Portuguese assets, including non-performing loans (secured and unsecured), securitisation notes backed by non-performing loans, and SPVs (Project Fitz II).
Portugal > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
‘A firm of enormous quality‘, VdA fields an ‘outstanding‘ corporate and M&A practice, whose ‘depth of services‘ and ‘responsiveness‘ are widely praised by clients. The group is routinely engaged in blockbuster M&A deals in a variety of industries, having reported a recent uptick in transactional mandates within the telecoms, energy (including renewables), healthcare, infrastructure, and aviation sectors. Cláudia da Cruz Almeida, who is highly reputed in the fields of corporate acquisitions, disposals, reorganisations, privatisations and private equity, is now managing the corporate and M&A practice, replacing senior partner Jorge Bleck in the leadership seat in February 2022. The group was recently bolstered by the arrival of Maria da Conceição Cabaços, who joined the Porto office in October 2021 from PLMJ, and the highly regarded Francisco Sá Carneiro, who left Campos Ferreira, Sá Carneiro & Associados in January 2022, a law firm where he was one of the founding partners. Transactional and restructuring mandates feature heavily on Paulo Trindade Costa‘s workload, which is further populated by cross-border deals involving Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. Acting for both sellers and buyers in private and public M&A, Helena Vaz Pinto stands out for her knowledge of the insurance sector, while Maria Cunha Matos, who is a qualified solicitor in England and Wales, and a registered foreign legal consultant in Brazil, is a name to note for cross-border matters. Recently promoted partner Sofia Bobone plays a prominent role in the practice, especially in the most innovative and high-profile deals handled by the firm. Former managing partner João Vieira de Almeida continues to supervise key M&A deals and joint ventures.Practice head(s):
Cláudia da Cruz Almeida
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I think the practice is outstanding and a good sign of that is how we always relie on VdA for our transactions in Portugal.’
‘Top notch in terms of technical expertise, availability and attitude during long projects which have been extremely demanding physically.’
‘Depth of services and team. Responsiveness in demanding timings.’
‘VdA is a firm of enormous quality. It provides excellent services and has a very good team.’
‘ I would like to highlight Maria Cunha Matos who is highly professional.’
‘Helena Vaz Pinto and Sofia Bobone stand out.’
Key clients
AMF
Aquinos Industry SGPS, S.A.
Brisa Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A.
Cellnex Telecom, S.A.
CLNX Portugal, S.A.
CVC
Grupo Media Capital SGPS, S.A.
Miya Water Holdings SA / Indaqua – Indústria e
Gestão de Águas, SA
Neptune Grafton I S.àrl
Nomura
Oi, S.A.
Petsenjoy – Serviços Veterinários, Lda.
PNI Portugal S.à.r.l
Portuguese State and Parpública – Participações Públicas
(SGPS), S.A.
Altice Portugal, S.A.
Semapa Next, S.A.
Smart Separations Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda.,
Sole shareholder of Pharsolution – Pharmaceutical
Consulting – Consultadoria, Unipessoal, Lda.
Visabeira Group
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Advised Grupo Visabeira on €200m in growth capital from Goldman Sachs Asset Management.
- Assisted Miya Water and its fully owned subsidiary Indaqua in the competitive bidding process leading to the acquisition by Indaqua of the entire share capital of Plainwater Serviços, SGPS, SA.
- Advised Cellnex Telecom, S.A. on the purchase of a newly incorporated subsidiary of PT Portugal, SGPS, S.A. holding a portfolio of towers and indoor solutions, from Altice Europe N.V
Portugal > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
At VdA, the privacy and data protection team sits within the broader information, communication and technology group. With specialised practitioners in specific industries, the practice is well equipped to assist clients in the retail, healthcare, energy, insurance, transportation, banking and gambling sectors. In addition to its proven track record in advising on privacy compliance programmes, the team is also sought after to handle the data protection aspects of corporate transactions as well as cybersecurity incidents and related contentious matters. With over 27 years of experience acting for domestic and international clients in international data transfers, data breaches and compliance work, Magda Cocco overseas the practice. Recently promoted partner Inês Antas de Barros is a key contact for the implementation of data protection compliance programmes in Portugal and Africa. Another name to note is managing associate Maria De Lurdes Gonçalves.Practice head(s):
Magda Cocco
Other key lawyers:
Inês Antas de Barros; Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves
Testimonials
‘VdA is an office that embodies innovation, endowed with excellent professionals focused on the client. As a client, I have experienced an exceptional service with the firm and I intend to continue working with the team!’
‘Magda Cocco and Inês Antas de Barros, in addition to the excellent reputation they have in the market, provide excellent service, demonstrating assertive and pragmatic leadership. They seek to understand the client’s business, providing opinions and legal advice of excellent quality. My experience with both continues to be absolutely exceptional!’
‘I value its proximity, availability and focus on finding the best solution for the client.’
‘The jurists I have worked with have deep technical knowledge and intelligently seek to know the client’s business so that their contribution is full and efficient.’
‘I emphasise the quality of Magda Coco, Ines Antas de Barros and Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves.’
‘Magda Cocco, Inês Antas de Barros and Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves are recommended.’
‘Excellent technical competence and availability.’
‘Magda Coco for her technical competence.’
Key clients
Alliance Française d’Investment
AGEAS Group
Altice Group
APS – Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores
Bial – Portela & Cª, SA
Brisa Group
ComparaMais, Lda
CTT Group
CUF
EDP Group
European Space Agency (ESA)
E-REDES – Distribuição de Eletricidade, SA
Feedzai
Fresenius Kabi Pharma PT
Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
Galp Energia, SGPS, SA
Generg Group
Gilead
HPA Saúde Group
IQVIA
José de Mello Group
Lusíadas Saúde
Luz Saúde
MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia SA
ProChild Lab
Sistemas McDonald’s Portugal, Lda
Sport Lisboa e Benfica Group (SLB)
VIA Outlets Portugal
Vodafone Portugal
Sonae Sierra SA
Zurich Insurance plc – Sucursal em Portugal
Work highlights
- Assisted AFD in the context of the #Data4COVID19 Africa Challenge project backed by AFD, Expertise France and GovLab by offering a series of privacy workshops to the project participants.
- Advised ESA, together with GMV and Guardtime, on the BlockSatCom project, assessing the benefits of blockchain for satcom and vice versa, covering regulatory matters among other areas.
- Acted for Bial on the implementation of a cookie’s compliance programme, while ensuring legal compliance and operational advantages for Bial.
Portugal > Dispute resolution Tier 1
VdA‘s dispute resolution team represents prominent companies and financial institutions in high-profile complex litigation and arbitration cases across a wide range of practice areas, spanning white-collar crime, restructuring and insolvency, IP, banking, M&A, competition law and insurance. Prominent in an array of sectors, including energy, life sciences, telecoms and real estate, the group is particularly active in cross-border disputes, notably in Portuguese-speaking African countries such as Angola, Mozambique and Cabo Verde. Leading the group are Frederico Gonçalves Pereira and Miguel Pinto Cardoso; Gonçalves Pereira is noted for his significant trial experience and expertise in complex civil and commercial disputes, and Pinto Cardoso focuses on domestic and international arbitration, especially commercial and investor-state disputes. Carla Gonçalves Borges is often sought after to advise on disputes in the banking, technology and sports industries. Mariana França Gouveia joined from PLMJ in June 2023.Practice head(s):
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira; Miguel Pinto Cardoso
Other key lawyers:
Carla Gonçalves Borges; Filipe Rocha Vieira; Miguel Lourenço e Silva
Testimonials
‘VdA has its clients at the centre of its attention, which allows it to develop a relationship based on mutual trust. There is a clear understanding by all members of the firm of the client’s priorities and objectives. The team always seeks the best legal framework to achieve the client’s goals.’
‘The VdA team is very well prepared. I would highlight the commitment and excellence of its professionals, who have a broad knowledge of various areas of specialisation, which results in successful outcomes in complex multidisciplinary matters.’
‘At VdA, lawyers effectively communicate with each other, which results in the good management of matters on a timely manner.’
‘Frederico Gonçalves Pereira and Miguel Pinto Cardoso are noted for their excellence, know-how and experience. Filipe Rocha Vieira and Miguel Lourenço e Silva are noted for their effort, sacrifice, resilience and dedication.’
Key clients
Grupo Banco Comercial Português
Grupo Caixa Geral de Depósitos
Brisa Auto-Estradas de Portugal
MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia
Oi, SA
Vanguard Properties Group
CTT – Correios de Portugal, SA
Zagope – Construções e Engenharia, SA
ConocoPhillips Group
Trust Energy Group
Banco de Portugal (Fundo de Resolução)
Sport Lisboa e Benfica
BWin Portugal
Doyen Sports Investments Limited
Movicel
Grupo Galp Energia
NovaBase Group
Banco Santander Totta, SA
Barclays Bank PLC
Grupo Deutsche Bank
Caixa de Crédito Agrícola
Banco Português de Fomento, SA
Zurich Insurance Plc
DEUTSCHE APOTHEKER-UND ÄRZTEBANK EG
The Navigator Company
NIB, S.A. – National Investment Bank, LLC
Roche – Sistemas de Diagnósticos, Sociedade Unipessoal, Lda
Novartis Portugal
Pfizer Portugal
Glaxo Smith Klein
DePuy International Ltd
Jose de Mello Saúde, SA (now CUF, SA)
Chevron
Subsea 7
Total E&P Angola, Block 32 – Sucursal de Angola
Igreja Universal do Reino de Deus, Angola
L3 Commercial Training Solutions
Indaqua (MYA Group)
Fundo de Investimento Imobiliário Fechado Sete Colinas
Via Verde Portugal
SAUR Group (and its shareholder EQT Partners)
Medicare
April Group insurance
Banco Invest
Tejo Energia – Produção e Distribuição de Energia Elétrica, SA
Montepio Bank
Turbogás – Produtora Energética, SA
Planbelas Group
Work highlights
- Represented BCP and CGD in a complex set of disputes against businessman and art collector José Berardo and his corporate group, Berardo Group.
- Acted for Banco Comercial Português in a claim filed by Fundação José Berado and José Berardo against Banco Comercial Português, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, ANovo Banco and BES – Em Liquidação, requesting the compensation of damages amounting to circa €1bn.
- Assisted CTT with a private enforcement claim against it filed by Vasp and Iberomail.
Portugal > Energy and natural resources Tier 1
Notable for its ‘highly competent lawyers and broad experience’, VdA is a port of call for large oil and gas, mining and energy companies as well as major financial institutions. In addition to its strong track record in M&A, joint ventures, project finance, refinancings and bond issuances, the group also excels in regulatory matters, concession issues, bidding procedures and project development. A particular area of strength for the practice is cross-border deals, especially those with ties to African countries such as Angola, Cabo Verde, Mozambique and Timor-Leste. Ana Luís de Sousa focuses on greenfield projects, acquisition financing and project finance transactions. She oversees the department alongside João Afonso Fialho, whose practice covers construction and procurement contracts, mining projects and cross-border deals. Vanda Cascão is sought after for her extensive experience handling projects in the energy, water and sewage and infrastructure sectors. Other key names include financing expert Manuel Protásio and José Miguel Oliveira, who is noted for oil and gas matters.Practice head(s):
Ana Luís de Sousa; João Afonso Fialho
Other key lawyers:
Vanda Cascão; Manuel Protásio; José Miguel Oliveira; Marta Stock da Cunha
Testimonials
‘It is a law firm that is ahead of the market. Commitment to its clients, human relations, technical and social innovation and training.’
‘Ana Luís de Sousa is experienced and emphatic. She has great technical and negotiation skills.’
‘It is an office with highly competent lawyers and broad experience. The size of the office and the range of operations in which it is involved allow the application of best practices and the achievement of excellent results for all parties.’
‘Ana Luís de Sousa has extensive experience in the energy sector and is able to understand the objectives of all parties involved, which always leads to the best solutions.’
‘Marta Stock da Cunha combines sectoral knowledge with availability and technical skills.’
Key clients
Banco Santander Totta
Crédit Agricole CIB
European Investment Bank
Finerge Group | Igneo Infrastructure Partners
Government of Cabo Verde (Ministry of Finance – Unidade de Gestão de Projetos Especiais)
Greenvolt Energias Renováveis SA
Macquerie Asset Management
Miya Water Holdings SA
Indaqua – Indústria e Gestão de Águas, SA
Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
TrustEnergy Group
Work highlights
- Advised Banco Santander Totta and the European Investment Bank on the refinancing of a wind and hydro portfolio installed in Portugal.
- Acted for the Timorese state, through the ANPM, on the negotiation of a production sharing contract with TIMOR GAP PUALACA BLOCK, Unipessoal for the award of exploration and production rights in the Pualaca onshore block.
- Assisted a consortium led by Macquerie Asset Management in the purchase of a portfolio of solar projects in Europe and Latin America with 762MW in operation and 15GW under development.
Portugal > EU and competition Tier 1
VdA‘s competition and EU practice is consistently engaged by some of the biggest domestic companies and leading international players in high-stakes regulatory, transactional, and contentious matters. The ‘extremely responsive‘ group excels in competition litigation cases, merger control and State Aid mandates on behalf of clients from a broad range of industries (inc. TMT, sports, banking, insurance, healthcare, infrastructure and energy), and showcases particular strength in articles 101 and 102 TFUE investigations. Under the leadership of Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro, the team has managed to secure a leading position in the market when it comes to handling cases before the European Commission, European Courts and in other jurisdictions, most notably Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. Practice head Bordalo Junqueiro and the highly regarded Nuno Ruiz have represented numerous clients in high-profile antitrust investigations and cartel cases at both the domestic and EU levels. Managing associate Cláudia Coutinho Da Costa is a key contact for merger control and antitrust proceedings involving the banking, telecoms, infrastructure and aviation sectors, while Nuno Carrolo dos Santos – ‘an extremely capable associate who provides strategic advice‘ in cross-border competition matters – stands out for his experience in antitrust investigations and merger control in the pharmaceuticals space.Practice head(s):
Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro
Other key lawyers:
Nuno Ruiz; Cláudia Coutinho da Costa; Nuno Carrolo dos Santos; Leonor Bettencourt Nunes
Testimonials
‘Extremely responsive and always willing to discuss fees.’
‘Ricardo Junqueiro has empowered his associates to get on with it. Nuno Carrolo dos Santos is an extremely capable associate who provides strategic advice.’
Key clients
Active Brands
Altri
Banco Comercial Português (BCP)
Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola
Coloplast A/S
CUF
CTT
Dia Portugal Supermercados, S.A.
Grupo 2045
Hapag-Lloyd Aktiengesellschaft
Horizon Partners
Lusíadas Saúde Group
Mapfre Seguros Gerais, S.A. (Mapfre Group)
McDonalds
MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia
Nintendo
Noble Corporation
Novartis
OLX–OLX Portugal, S.A.
Oaktree
Parpublica / TAP
Puma Energy (Angola)
SATA Air Açores
Saipem SpA
Somafel – Engenharia e Obras Ferroviárias, S.A.
Sport Lisboa e Benfica
Standard Bank Angola
Trafigura Group Pte Ltd
The Walt Disney Company
Universal Music
Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, S.A.
Zurich Insurance PLC – Sucursal Portugal
Portugal > Fraud and white-collar crime Tier 1
VdA‘s investigations and white-collar crime practice handles complex investigations and sensitive criminal cases in a wide range of industries, most notably sports, financial services, telecoms, energy and media. The group is noted for its strong track record in cross-border cases, especially those involving Portuguese-speaking African countries and Timor-Leste. Recently, the team has been engaged in regulatory investigations, money laundering and corruption cases, and search and seizure procedures. The department is led by Sofia Ribeiro Branco, who is recommended for advice on regulatory offences and white-collar crime matters. Inês Almeida Costa left the firm in September 2022, while former co-head João Medeiros departed in November 2023.Practice head(s):
Sofia Ribeiro Branco
Key clients
EDP Group
Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN)
Doyen Sports Investment (DSI)- Football Leaks
CUF
Sport Lisboa e Benfica — Futebol, S.A.D.
Suez II Water Technologies & Solutions Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda
VARZIM SOL – TURISMO, JOGO E ANIMAÇÃO, SA
Ascendi
Asperbras
Manuel Salgado (former official at Lisbon Municipality)
Several companies and insolvent companies of the Espírito Santo Group
Francisco Andrade (official at Funchal Municipality)
Marítimo da Madeira Futebol – SAD
Engie Group
MEO (Altice Group)
Lusíadas
Portugal > Insolvency and restructuring Tier 1
VdA houses a dedicated corporate restructuring and insolvency practice with specialist lawyers, which attracts a roster of premier financial institutions, fund managers, corporates, board members and public sector clients. Known in the market for his extensive experience in high-profile insolvency cases, Frederico Gonçalves Pereira, who founded the firm’s litigation and arbitration practice, heads up the department. With a strong background in restructuring and insolvency matters in the financial services and telecoms sectors, Terresa Pitôrra is another key practitioner. Also recommended is managing associate Catarina Carvalho Cunha. Former co-head Filipa Cotta left the firm in January 2024.Practice head(s):
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral, SA
Directorate General for Structural Reform Support of the European Commission
Rio Forte Investments, SA
Atena Equity Partners
Maló Clinic SA
European Investment Bank (EIB)
Banif Finance Ltd
Board members of Dizin Lda
Caixa Gestão de Ativos, SA (CGA)
Insolvent Estate of Fundo de Investimento Imobiliário Fechado Promovest
Banco de Portugal
Valeo Systèmes de Contrôle Moteur
Banco português de Fomento
Work highlights
- Advised Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral on the refinancing and restructuring of its debt.
- Acted together with KPMG for the Ministry of Justice of Portugal on a project to implement the Directive (EU) 2019/1023 of the European Parliament on preventive restructuring frameworks.
- Assisted Rio Forte Investments in its insolvency and liquidation process, with a special focus on the liquidation of its assets held in Portugal.
Portugal > Intellectual property Tier 1
Praised for its ‘excellent knowledge of life sciences regulatory and patent infringement matters’, VdA is a popular destination for high-profile pharmaceutical companies and stands out for its proven track record in complex patent litigation and arbitration. Founded by António de Magalhães Cardoso and led by of counsel Marta Alves Vieira, the practice has extensive experience in trade mark, design, copyright and unfair competition disputes. Vieira is highly experienced in IP litigation and arbitration cases, with a strong focus on pharmaceutical patent matters. Other key practitioners include managing associates Sara Nazaré, who excels in IP litigation, and Joana Piriquito Santos, whose practice covers the management of IP portfolios and patent prosecution matters.
Practice head(s):
Marta Alves Vieira
Other key lawyers:
António de Magalhães Cardoso; Beatriz Lima; Joana Piriquito Santos; Ana Falcão Afonso; Sara Nazaré
Testimonials
‘Broad depth of legal knowledge across the team, including excellent knowledge of life sciences regulatory and patent infringement matters.’
‘I highlight Sara Nazaré, who offers high-quality advice.’
‘Service provided with quality and in a timely manner.’
‘I particularly highlight Ana Falcão Afonso.’
‘Good knowledge of contentious IP proceedings in the field of life sciences.’
‘Marta Alves Vieira is is always available to help. She has a good knowledge of IP law and life sciences.’
‘Beatriz Lima and Joana Piriquito Santos are recommended.’
Key clients
AstraZeneca
Biogen
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Cloudflare
CUF
H/2 Credit Manager
Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson
Kaizen Gaming
Luz Saúde
MED&CR and other Group companies such as Callmedia or Gesticlub
MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia, SA
Merck Sharp and Dohme
Novartis AG
Pharma Mar
Semapa
Takeda and Millennium
UCB Pharma
Vanguard Properties
Work highlights
- Assisted AstraZeneca in the protection of patent and supplementary protection certificate rights for two different core products.
- Advised Cloudflare INC on the preliminary injunction proceedings brought by Sport TV against Cloudflare for the blocking of certain IP owned by Cloudflare.
- Acted for H/2 Credit Manager in trade mark prosecution matters in Portugal, including annulment proceedings before EUIPO.
Portugal > Projects and project finance Tier 1
At VdA, the infrastructure, energy and natural resources group possesses exceptional industry coverage and continues to advise Portuguese and foreign entities on the most sophisticated financing transactions and projects across the energy, airports, toll roads, ports, mining and sanitation sectors. Its impressive client roster features a host of sponsors, construction companies, operators, financiers, government agencies, and multilaterals, who regularly seek guidance throughout all stages of domestic and international projects. Recent areas of growth for the team include the refinancing and acquisition of energy projects and assets, as well as the renegotiation of PPP-like structures in the infrastructure and transport segments. Chairing the department, Manuel Protásio brings more than two decades worth of experience in project finance and M&A in the energy, mining and water sectors. Ana Luís de Sousa is best known for her capabilities in the development and implementation of energy projects, a sector in which Vanda Cascão is a key figure to note. Teresa Empis Falcão is also recommended for energy-related project finance and development. Oil and gas, mining and infrastructure projects in Africa are among João Afonso Fialho's core specialisms, while Paulo de Barros Baptista, a development expert, oversees work pertaining to the road sector.Practice head(s):
Manuel Protásio
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
AEBT – Auto-Estradas do Baixo Tejo, S.A.
Banco Santander Totta, S.A.
Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A.
Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral, S.A.
Finerge Group| Igneo Infrastructure Partners
Mota- Engil, Engenharia e Construção África, S.A.
Nomura
Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
TrustEnergy
Work highlights
- Advised Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral, S.A. and Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A. on the refinancing and restructuring of the debt of Brisal.
- Assisted Mota-Engil África in the public tender for the award of the concession, under a public-private partnership regime, of the design, construction, financing, operation and maintenance of toll motorways in Mozambique.
- Assisting the Government of East Timor/ANPM in the negotiation with the Government of Australia and Greater Sunrise Joint Venture of the whole legal and contractual framework for the development of greater Sunrise fields (the largest LNG project in Southeast Asia).
Portugal > Public law Tier 1
VdA has a strong presence in a wide range of highly regulated industries, including banking, telecoms, energy, infrastructure and technology. A popular choice for concessionaires, public service licensees and government bodies, the team is typically sought after to advise on state aid matters, administrative disputes, litigation and arbitration, and privatisations. On the international front, the practice has been increasingly active across Lusophone Africa and French-speaking African countries. The department is jointly led by Paulo Pinheiro, and Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira; Pinheiro focuses on administrative litigation, concessions and regulatory matters, while Esteves de Oliveira is often retained by banking and infrastructure clients to handle administrative proceedings. Catarina Pinto Correia is noted for her track record in advising African states on privatisations and PPPs. Also recommended is Ana Marta Castro, whose practice covers public contracts, concessions and administrative litigation.Practice head(s):
Paulo Pinheiro; Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira
Other key lawyers:
Catarina Pinto Correia; Ana Marta Castro
Key clients
Banco de Portugal
The Portuguese Government (Ministry of Finance)
Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, SA
CTT – Correios de Portugal, SA
MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, SA
Tejo Energia, SA
Águas do Norte, SA
ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, SA
Finerge, SA
Standard Bank Angola
CUF, SA
Escala Braga – Sociedade Gestora do Estabelecimento, SA
Escala Vila Franca – Sociedade Gestora do Estabelecimento, SA
Group EGF – Environment Global Facilities
SATA Air Açores, SA
Azores Regional Government
Ferrovial Construccion
ACA – Alberto Couto Alves SA
REN Serviços
Novartis Farma
Solverde – Sociedade de Investimentos Turísticos da Costa Verde, SA
Government of Cabo Verde (Ministry of Finance – Unidade de Gestão de Projetos Especiais)
Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles, SA
Work highlights
- Advised the Portuguese State and Parpública on the approval by the European Commission of the €2.55bn restructuring aid in favour of the Transportes Aéreos Portugueses and the granting of Covid-19 damages compensation state aid.
- Assisted Vodafone Portugal in public consultations launched by ANACOM, the telecoms regulator, regarding strategic matters to the development of the sector.
- Represented Banco de Portugal and Fundo de Resolução in over 600 legal proceedings regarding the resolution measure applied in August 2014 to Banco Espírito Santo and further decisions relating to it.
Portugal > Real estate and construction Tier 1
The real estate and construction practice at VdA is highly regarded for its ‘vast experience and know-how in all aspects related to real estate and urban planning matters’. With a proven track record in project development work, the group excels in assisting clients in the implementation of medium- and long-term investment operations and financing. Leading the department is Pedro Ferreirinha, who draws on more than 25 years of experience advising on acquisitions and sale and leaseback transactions involving residential, office, hotel and retail projects. Miguel Marques dos Santos acts for major national and foreign investors and developers. Pedro Pereira Coutinho is particularly active in the hospitality and leisure sectors, while Pedro Corrêa de Oliveira is especially sought after to handle project development matters in the retail, residential and tourism segments.Practice head(s):
Pedro Ferreirinha
Other key lawyers:
Miguel Marques dos Santos; Pedro Pereira Coutinho; Lisa Ventura Lopes; Raul Mota Cerveira
Testimonials
‘Vast experience and know-how in all aspects related to real estate and urban planning matters. Ability to provide legal support in all phases of a project’s development. When necessary, VdA has “in-house” skills and competences in areas complementary to real estate, managing to provide support in an integrated manner. Good network in Portugal, both in the private and public sectors.’
‘Extraordinary follow-ups on a daily basis. Very fast responses. High capacity for argumentation.’
‘Lisa Ventura Lopes has great knowledge of the real estate market and all the regulations in force. Strong commercial sense. Great ability to close deals. Result oriented.’
‘Pedro Pereira Coutinho is empathetic in commercial relationships and focused on closing deals.’
‘Pedro Ferreirinha has great knowledge of the real estate market, with a high capacity for strategy and extensive experience in the development of complex projects. Strong domain in all legal aspects of real estate and urban planning.
‘Pedro Corrêa de Oliveira is very organised and has extensive knowledge of all areas and schemes for implementing real estate projects.’
‘Raul Mota Cerveira has a good sense of urgency and is very competent in the field of real estate and urban planning. Good network, including public sector entities.’
Key clients
Vanguard Properties (Group Claude Berda)
Groupe Castel
Norfin
Orion
AXA REIM
MAKRO – CASH & CARRY PORTUGAL, S.A.
Ageas Portugal
EMGI – Investment Group, Unipessoal, Lda.
Prowinko
Aermont
Via Outlets
Work highlights
- Assisted Vanguard Properties in the development of two high-end tourism and residential projects in Comporta along a 60km stretch of beach.
Portugal > Tax Tier 1
Covering transactional matters, litigation, corporate tax, VAT and other indirect taxes, the ‘well-trained‘ tax team at VdA underscores its reputation with a steady stream of high-profile instructions for some of the largest corporates and financial institutions in Portugal. With significant experience in the energy, real estate, infrastructure, life sciences, IT and financial sectors, the team is subdivided into different areas of expertise: a group focused on advising financial players – such as banks, insurers, funds and fintech companies – on transactional and day-to-day matters; a team dedicated to private wealth management issues; and a practice that is fully devoted to indirect tax mandates. The firm, which was strengthened by the addition of the former PLMJ Porto-based tax department in September 2021, also showcases a strong track record in litigation and arbitration proceedings. Department leader Tiago Marreiros Moreira specialises in the international tax structuring of major investments in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa; he is regularly sought after by international funds and real estate players in both transactions and disputes. Highly regarded tax litigator Joaquim Pedro Lampreia, Miguel C. Reis, who brings together expertise in M&A tax structuring, litigation and estate planning, are other key individuals. The recently promoted Francisco Cabral Matos manages a balanced workload of corporate and finance transactions, tax litigation and private wealth matters. Sitting in the Porto office, João Velez de Lima is a name to note for energy, industrial, real estate and telecoms clients, while senior counsel Conceição Gamito, who excels in VAT disputes, leads the indirect tax team. Samuel Fernandes de Almeida left the firm in November 2023.Practice head(s):
Tiago Marreiros Moreira
Other key lawyers:
Joaquim Pedro Lampreia; Miguel Reis; Francisco Cabral Matos; João Velez de Lima; Conceição Gamito; Salomé Corte-Real
Testimonials
‘A law firm with a well-trained team for any tax or commercial matter. Excellent quality of work and support, always available to solve what the client needs. They provide face-to-face or online support.’
‘I have been working with the VDA tax area for over 20 years. The team provided a high quality service, technical knowledge, superior strategic capacity, security, trust and common sense.’
‘Joaquim Pedro Lampreia stands out for his ability to define a winning strategy, his superior intelligence, his wisdom and common sense. He is a reference in the tax area in Portugal and outside the Portuguese market as well.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the sector of activity, which allows it to positively identify the client’s problems, any associated risks, and present solutions adjusted to the real needs of the company, which effectively adds value to the business. Francisco Cabral Matos is recommended.‘
‘In addition to expertise and experience in tax matters, the VdA has excellent knowledge of our sector of activity, which allows it to positively identify the client’s problems, any risks associated therewith, presenting solutions adjusted to the real needs of the company, which effectively adds value to the business.’
Key clients
AllianzGI-Fonds AEVN
ANPM (East Timor National Petroleum and Minerals Authority)
Barclays Bank Ireland PLC and NatWest Markets N.V. as Solicitation Agents
Blackstone Group /BREDS– Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies; KSL Capital Partners
BlueCrow Capital
Bolt
BP Portugal
C2 Capital Partners
Churchill Graham, S.A.
De Beers Exploration Holding Limited
Deutsche Bank AG
Explorer Investments
Explorer Investments; C2 Capital Partners; Lince Capital; BlueCrow Capital; and GED Ventures
Finerge, S.A.
FREZIGEST, SGPS S.A
Frezite
Gamalife
GED Ventures
GreenVolt – Energias Renováveis, S.A.
Iberdrola Group
Lince Capital
Medicare Group
Mota Engil
Nike
OPS Angola
Petsenjoy – Serviços Veterinários, Lda.
RAR Group
TIIC/Inspire Capital
Vanguard Properties
Vinci
Visabeira Group
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Represented AllianzGI-Fonds AEVN in a dispute with the Portuguese State before the European Court of Justice (ECJ) involving the analysis of the compatibility of the Portuguese tax legislation with European Law, regarding taxation of dividends obtained by foreign investment funds in Portugal.
- Advising ANPM on the creation of the tax regime applicable to petroleum activities in the Greater Sunrise fields.
- Designed the structure of the “SIFIDE Funds”, which started a new type of fund that enabled an innovative mechanism for companies investing in R&D under a special tax benefits regime.
Portugal > TMT Tier 1
VdA‘s information, communication and technology group is typically engaged in the most complex and high-profile matters across the media and entertainment, science and technology, cybersecurity, telecoms, aerospace and digital economy fields. Offering a full service spanning transactional, regulatory, advisory and contentious work, the team is co-led by Fernando Resina da Silva and data protection, TMT and aerospace expert Magda Cocco. Resina da Silva has a strong background in tech matters and is well versed in emerging technologies, outsourcing and IP. Margarida Couto is recommended for large infrastructure projects and public procurement matters in regulated and non-regulated sectors, while Tiago Bessa focuses on the regulation of electronic and postal communication and is a go-to adviser for leading telecoms companies. Names to note at the managing associate level include Marília Frias and Isabel Ornelas, who are noted for their strong backgrounds in cross-border deals and large projects involving submarine cables and 5G implementation.Practice head(s):
Fernando Resina da Silva; Magda Cocco
Other key lawyers:
Tiago Bessa; Margarida Couto; Laura Sarmento; David Coimbra de Paula; Isabel Ornelas; Marília Frias
Testimonials
‘The technical quality, availability and proximity, always working with a focus on the best solution for the client.’
‘I don’t know anyone in the market who beats Magda Cocco and her strategic vision.’
‘Our partnership with this office has lasted for several years, having been maintained thanks to the exceptional knowledge shown by its lawyers and the ability to manage multiple processes simultaneously without losing the quality of work.’
‘Fernando Resina da Silva, Laura Sarmento, David Coimbra de Paula and Isabel Ornelas are recommended.’
‘Close relationship with the client. Constant follow-ups.’
‘Marília Frias is an outstanding lawyer and the main reason for keeping our long relationship with VdA.’
Key clients
Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, SA
Tata Communications
Timor Telecom, SA
CTT – Correios de Portugal, SA
MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, SA
Cellnex
CST – Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações
Portuguese Government – Secretary of State for Digital Transition, Ministry of Economy and Digital Transition
ESA (European Space Agency)
GMV
Guardtime
EllaLink
ARME – Multisectorial Regulatory Agency Cabo Verde
T.V.I. – Televisão Independente, SA
Voxbone, SA
SLB – Sport Lisboa e Benfica
Marco Polo
Kaizen Gaming International Limited
Work highlights
- Assisted major international stakeholders and groups of telecoms companies in Portugal with the implementation of 5G and related public consultation matters.
- Acted for various clients on multiple international submarine cable projects, with a focus on Europe and African jurisdictions.
- Advised ESA on opportunities and architecture for the application of DLT in satcom systems, aimed at assessing the use of blockchain in satcom as well as the use of satcom in blockchain.
Portugal > Employment Tier 2
VdA‘s labour offering was boosted by the arrival of key practitioners in its Porto office, including new practice head Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão, who joined the firm in September 2021 from PLMJ, bringing more than 40 years of experience in domestic and international arbitration as well as employment matters. Other key arrivals include managing associates Maria Cavaleiro Brandão, Marta Silva and Pedro Ferreira de Sousa. With ‘excellent professionals for both court and out-of-court proceedings’, the group acts for domestic and international clients across the oil and gas, banking, healthcare, technology and retail industries. Rui Andrade is the name to note for labour litigation and arbitration, while collective dismissals and corporate restructurings are areas of expertise of Tiago Piló. Recently promoted partner Américo Oliveira Fragoso excels in collective bargaining negotiations, industrial actions and pension fund matters.Practice head(s):
Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Dedication, availability, quick response and practical sense in the proposed decisions.’
‘The services provided to us are almost exclusively performed by Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão and Pedro Ferreira de Sousa. Excellent quality. I recommend both lawyers to anyone who needs services within the scope of labour matters.’
‘Pedro Ferreira de Sousa is our point of contact and a clearly distinguished lawyer. He demonstrates great availability and proximity as well as the ability to develop structured plans to address our problems. He is a lawyer that every member of our company likes to work with.’
‘Americo Oliveira Fragoso combines an in-depth knowledge of the law with a practical and effective approach to solving the problems that are handed to him.’
‘A team with a lot of experience in different jurisdictions and capable of presenting alternative and creative solutions to the client.’
‘Rui Andrade for his technical knowledge, proven experience, availability, ability to understand the client’s needs and adjust legal solutions to the client’s problems.’
‘I would highlight the excellent quality of the advice provided, the very good level of service, the team’s availability and its proactivity. Excellent professionals for both court and out-of-court proceedings. The team delivers extraordinary results.’
‘Excellent professional, with unique personal qualities and unsurpassed dedication. Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão and Pedro Ferreira de Sousa are brilliant lawyers and negotiators. I highlight their rigour, professionalism and knowledge. Excellent expertise in all labour matters.’
Key clients
SBM Production Contractors Inc., SA – Sucursal
AGPL – Empresa de Trabalho Portuário Douro e Leixões
SuperBock Group
Cellnex Telecom, SA
MSD
VALMET, Lda
Sport Lisboa e Benfica, SAD
Trofa Saúde Group
GiFi Portugal
Brisa
Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
Körber Supply Chain PT, SA
Bristol Myers Squibb
Greenvolt
Springjet
Mobileum
Grupo Montalva
Grupo Portugália
ATEP – Amkor Technology Portugal, SA
Finsa
Yazaki
INL – International Iberian Technology Laboratory
Work highlights
- Assisted SBM in the implementation of its business activity in Portugal, including contractual matters, labour relations with local and expatriated staff and governance policies.
- Acted for AGPL – Empresa de Trabalho Portuário Douro e Leixões in seven court cases with an estimated value of approximately €500,000.
- Advised SuperBock Group on a reorganisation affecting 102 employees and related contentious matters.
Portugal > Porto: Leading commercial firms Tier 2
Known for its ‘collaboration and excellent communication’, VdA‘s Porto office is active across a wide range of sectors, most notably manufacturing, energy, automotive, telecoms and technology. Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão manages the group and is the leading practitioner in the labour and employment practice. With extensive experience handling investment projects and corporate restructuring on behalf of domestic and international clients, Isabel Gião de Andrade is a key contact in the governance team. Maria da Conceição Cabaços focuses on cross-border M&A and corporate matters. Miguel Reis and João Velez de Lima are recommended for tax matters, including judicial and administrative tax litigation, international taxation issues and compliance work. Also noted is managing associate Benedita Gonçalves, who is specialised in labour and employment matters, including collective dismissal proceedings.Practice head(s):
Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘High-quality multidisciplinary team.’
‘VdA has vast knowledge of the sectors in which it provides legal advice, which transmits a lot of confidence to its clients. The team demonstrates extensive international experience, always using an objective and comprehensive approach.’
‘I particularly recommend João Soares Franco for his maturity and for his knowledge transmitted in simple language, which leads to excellent results.’
‘Collaboration and excellent communication.’
‘Knowledge and proximity.’
‘The team always keeps the client updated. Always concerned in finding the best solutions. João Velez de Lima and Salomé Corte Real are recommended.’
‘The reason for us to continue choosing Miguel Reis has to do with three factors: his knowledge of our company, his high technical capacity and his pragmatism, transparency and objectivity. Lawyers who stand out are Miguel Reis and João Velez de Lima.’
Key clients
AGPL – Empresa de Trabalho Portuário Douro e Leixões
Brisa
Bristol Myers Squibb
Cellnex Telecom, SA
Finerge, SA
FREZIGEST SGPS
Frezite
GiFi Portugal
Grupo Trofa Saúde
Iberdrola
INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory
Körber Supply Chain PT, SA
MSD
Mundipharma
Montepio Crédito
Mota-Engil
Novartis
Parpública – Participações Públicas (SGPS), SA
RAR Group
Roche
SBM Production Contractors Inc, SA
Schwarz Gruppe
Sport Lisboa e Benfica, SAD
SuperBock Group
Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
TrustEnergy Group
VALMET, Lda
Vifor Pharma
Worthington Group
Amtrol
Work highlights
- Assisted Iberdrola in several large intra-group tax matters.
- Acted for SBM in the implementation of its business activities in Portugal, including contractual matters with suppliers and stakeholders, labour relations with local and expatriated staff, and governance policies.
- Advised companies forming part of the Engie Group in Portugal on several matters.
Portugal > Transport Tier 2
At VdA, the transport team is a part of the firm’s wider infrastructure and mobility department and features multidisciplinary expertise across banking and finance, public law, competition law, IT and energy. Prominent in financings, PPPs, public tenders and disputes in the shipping, aviation, rail and road segments, the practice is led by Paulo de Barros Baptista, who is a go-to adviser for transport infrastructure companies. Other key lawyers in the team include public law expert Catarina Pinto Correia; Pedro Simões Coelho, who leads on finance and lease operations; and José Miguel Oliveira, who is seasoned in regulatory matters.Practice head(s):
Paulo de Barros Baptista
Other key lawyers:
Catarina Pinto Correia; Pedro Simões Coelho; José Miguel Oliveira; Diego Bordeira Neves; Carlos Filipe Couto
Testimonials
‘The VdA team has good knowledge of the aviation industry and responds quickly.’
‘I enjoy working with Carlos Couto, Pedro Simões Coelho and Diego Bordeira Neves.’
Key clients
ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, SA
Brisa Auto-Estradas de Portugal, SA
Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral, SA
Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles, SA
Ferrovial Agroman, SA
ACA – Alberto Couto Alves SA
Monjasa DMCC
Portuguese Government – Secretary of State for Digital
Transition, Ministry of Economy and Digital Transition
SATA Air Açores, SA
Azores Regional Government
Scoturb
Shelf Drilling Holdings, Ltd
STCP – Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto, SA
TSL – Tejo Shipping Lines, Lda
West China Cement Limited
Scotturb – Transportes Urbanos. Lda
Work highlights
- Advised Brisal – Auto-Estradas do Litoral and Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal on the refinancing and restructuring of its debt.
- Assisted the Portuguese government in the preparation of a new legal and regulatory framework implementing and promoting Technological Free Zones in Portugal.
- Acted for Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles in a competitive procedure launched by CP – Comboios de Portugal, EPE for the supply of 117 trains and provision of associated maintenance services.
Portugal > Planning law Tier 3
The planning team at VdA offers assistance with zoning and land use regulations, planning instruments, due diligence and environmental impact assessments, among other matters. With a strong presence in African Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola and São Tomé and Principe, the practice is jointly led by Pedro Ferreirinha, who is sought after to advise on acquisitions and disposals of residential, commercial, hospitality and retail properties, and Raul Mota Cerveira, whose practice covers projects in the infrastructure, water, sanitation and energy sectors.Practice head(s):
Pedro Ferreirinha; Raul Mota Cerveira
Testimonials
‘I believe that what makes VDA’s service unique is the easy access to its professionals, regardless of their level of seniority. Partners are always available to meet when needed.’
‘Specialists in all sectors of activity. Quick responses and very well documented.’
‘Raul Mota Cerveira is recommended.’
Key clients
Douro Marina Hotel
Malanza Development, SA
EllaLink
Neptune Charisma, Lda.
Vanguard Properties (Group Claude Berda)
AFR-IX Telecom
Harmonious Jungle
HBD – São Tomé and Príncipe
APS – Gestão Imobiliária
SNIPER CAPITAL
Fundbox / Quinta da Ombria
Odebrecht SA
TotalEnergies
BIOCOM
TLC – SHIPPING
FUNDAÇÂO ORIENTE
Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company
Cloudflare Inc
Prowinko
OIKOS- Cooperação para o Desenvolvimento
LisbonSound
CAVIBEL
Work highlights
- Advised Harmonious Jungle on the acquisition of several properties, including a rural hotel in Peneda-Gerês National Park and an agribusiness project in Castelo Branco.
- Assisted Fundação Oriente in the regularisation of a construction made in the past in an ecological, coastal protection and natural park reserve located in Quinta da Marinha, Guincho, Cascais.
- Advised Vanguard Properties (Group Claude Berda) on the acquisition and development of a portfolio of residential and hospitality properties.
Angola > Foreign firms Tier 1
VdA is recognised for its ‘significant experience and know-how in handling matters in Angola’. The group often advises on high-profile transactions across key sectors of the economy, with a focus on oil and gas, mining, energy, telecoms and banking. João Afonso Fialho heads the oil and gas practice and is recommended for projects in Portuguese-speaking countries and Francophone Africa. José Miguel Oliveira covers corporate and M&A as well as shipping and energy matters. Paulo Trindade Costa is frequently retained to handle M&A, restructurings and corporate finance transactions, while Hugo Moredo Santos is a key practitioner in the banking and finance team, often acting for financial intermediaries, issuers and investors. Another key name is Magda Cocco, who leads the information, communication and tech practice.Practice head(s):
João Afonso Fialho; José Miguel Oliveira; Paulo Trindade Costa
Other key lawyers:
Hugo Moredo Santos; Maria Inês Costa; Magda Cocco
Testimonials
‘The team has significant experience and know-how in handling matters in Angola.’
‘José Miguel Oliveira is a high-profile practitioner in the market, Angolan qualified and has an in-depth knowledge of the local markets.’
‘Senior associate Maria Inês Costa is responsive, always available and sharp.’
Key clients
BIOCOM
KT – Kinetics Technology
Odebrecht Angola
Standard Bank Angola
Trafigura Group Pte Ltd
Puma Energy
Mota Engil Group
OPS Angola
Unitel – Angola
Work highlights
- Advised Standard Bank Angola on the privatisation process of Banco de Comércio e Indústria for the sale of 100% of its share capital on the first stock exchange auction held in Angola.
- Assisted KT – Kinetics Technology in the implementation of the engineering, procurement, construction and implementation contract for the modernisation and expansion of the Luanda Refinery.
- Represented OPS Angola in a large VAT refund claim against the Angolan tax authorities.
Mozambique > Foreign law firms Tier 1
VdA‘s ‘very experienced’ Mozambique group is noted for its wealth of experience in the oil and gas, energy, banking and construction sectors, where it handles a broad spectrum of tax, finance, licensing and corporate matters. Teresa Empis Falcão, who draws on more than 25 years of experience advising on project finance, acquisitions and structured finance transactions, leads the practice alongside José Miguel Oliveira, who is often engaged in transactions in Angola, Mozambique and Portugal and is a key contact for oil and gas, energy and transportation clients. E-commerce, data protection and privacy matters are areas of expertise for Magda Cocco. Oil and gas expert João Afonso Fialho is another key practitioner. Samuel Fernandes de Almeida left the firm in November 2023.Practice head(s):
José Miguel Oliveira; Teresa Empis Falcão
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Complete availability to answer the client’s requests and explain the details of the law. They do not only read the law to us but spend time to explain the background and applicability.’
‘Very experienced in all areas that we have requested information.’
Key clients
Total E&P Mozambique Area 1, Limitada
Mota- Engil, Engenharia e Construção África, SA (Mota-Engil África)
Work highlights
- Advised Mota-Engil África on the public tender for the concession, under a PPP regime, of the design, construction, finance, operation and maintenance of motorway tolls in Mozambique.
- Represented Portucel Moçambique and its parent companies in a dispute initiated by three former service providers.
Angola > Local firms
Led by António Penelas, ASP Advogados is often engaged in transactions across key areas of the Angolan economy, including mining, oil and gas, banking, energy and construction. Notable for his experience advising on corporate, commercial and labour law matters, Penelas is a key practitioner in the litigation and arbitration team. José Miguel Oliveira is recommended for regulatory law, foreign investment and shipping matters, with a focus on the Angolan, Mozambique and Portuguese markets. Other key names are senior associate Marcelo Mendes and consultants Ângela Viana and Joana Pacheco. On the international front, the firm is the exclusive member of VdA Legal Partners in Angola.Practice head(s):
António Penelas
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
BIOCOM
KT – Kinetics Technology, SPA
Odebrecht Angola
Standard Bank Angola
Trafigura Group Pte Ltd.
Puma Energy (Angola)
Work highlights
- Advised Standard Bank Angola on the privatisation process of Banco de Comércio e Indústria and the sale of 100% of its share capital on the first stock exchange auction held in Angola.
- Assisted KT – Kinetics Technology with the implementation of the engineering, procurement, construction and implementation (EPCI) contract for the modernisation and expansion of the Luanda Refinery.
- Acted for Trafigura and Puma Energy on the sale of Sonangol shareholding in Puma Energy and the acquisition by Sonangol of Puma Energy shareholding in Pumangol.
VdA > Firm Profile
With over 40 years of experience, Vieira de Almeida (VdA) is an international law firm noted for top-quality legal advice and cutting-edge innovation. A profound business know-how coupled with a highly specialised cross-sector legal practice enable the firm to effectively meet the increasingly complex challenges faced by clients. VdA offers robust solutions based on consistent standards of excellence, ethics and professionalism, and is acknowledged as a leading provider of legal services by the most reputed professional organisations, international publications and research institutions. VdA has consistently and consecutively received the industry’s most prestigious awards and nominations.
Through VdA Legal Partners clients have access to a wide sectorial coverage and a team of lawyers across 7 jurisdictions: Portugal; Angola; Cabo Verde; Equatorial Guinea; Mozambique, Sao Tomé and Príncipe and Timor-Leste.
VdA Legal Partners consolidates VdA’s international footprint, bringing together all the lawyers and independent law firms affiliated with VdA for the provision of integrated legal services in Lusophone Africa, as well as Timor-Leste.
The firm has a unique blend of exceptional technical expertise, a commercial mindset and in-depth knowledge across industries and local markets. Each mandate is tenaciously handled by multidisciplinary teams comprised of subject-matter specialists and local practitioners. Lawyers at VdA work as a team regardless of their physical location: enthusiastic client service is part of their DNA, wherever the client may be.
The firm’s international reach is further enhanced through a set of working relationships with some of the most reputed law firms in Europe, America – particularly Brazil – Asia and Africa:
- Angola: With extensive experience in Angola, our lawyers have led the most high-profile operations and projects of the last decades, particularly in the Oil&Gas, mining, banking and finance and the telecommunications sectors. The exclusive Angolan member of VdA Legal Partners, Luanda-based ASP Advogados, is comprised of notable local lawyers, deeply familiarized with the Angolan market, drawing upon the talents and skills of over 300 VdA attorneys across 7 jurisdictions and several international offices. Clients’ most demanding and multifaceted needs in Angola are met by a highly specialised and fully dedicated cross-sector legal practices. For further information, please visit: www.aspadvogados.co.ao
- Cabo-Verde: At VdA, our lawyers have assisted with diversified projects and operations in Cabo Verde, particularly in the telecommunications, banking and finance, energy, and tourism sectors, further standing out for their extensive work in legislative production as part of the great legal reforms undertaken in recent years. Our local partner, SSA Advogados is the exclusive member of VdA Legal Partners in Cape Verde. Led by Sulima Santos, this young and dynamic team has a deep knowledge of the local market. As part of the VdA Legal Partners network, which gathers more than 300 lawyers with international experience, SSA Advogados aims to establish itself as a leading firm in the Cape Verdean legal market, particularly in the Financial, Energy, Infrastructures, Telecommunications and Tourism sectors
For further information, please contact: caboverde@vdalegalpartners.com - Equatorial Guinea: Our VdA lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the Equato-Guinean market, regularly assisting major investors in the country, including in contentious matters, chiefly in the Oil&Gas sector but also in the infrastructure, transport, banking & finance and energy sectors, as well as in national and international arbitration. For further information, please contact: equatorialguinea@vdalegalpartners.com
- Mozambique: GDA Advogados is the exclusive member of VdA Legal Partners in Mozambique. Combining a dynamic and multifaceted team with international background with a deep understanding of the local Mozambican market, GDA Advogados is particularly focused on the energy, infrastructure and the banking & finance sectors, drawing upon the accumulated know-how of over 300 VdA Legal Partners’ lawyers worldwide. For further information, please visit: www.gdaadvogados.com, or contact: mozambique@vdalegalpartners.com
- São Tomé e Príncipe: With extensive experience in São Tomé and Principe, our lawyers have consistently supported major international investors in recent years, notably in the Oil&Gas, banking & finance and tourism sectors. Our local partner, VNA Advogados, is a highly reputed law firm with a young, dynamic team with in-depth knowledge of the local situation, offering specialized, close and practical assistance to our clients. For further information, please visit: www.vnalawfirm.com
- Timor-Leste: With extensive experience in Timor-Leste, and a bespoke combination of relationships, skills and experience in all relevant sectors – notably in telecommunications, banking & finance, infrastructure and oil&gas matters, our teams in Timor-Leste have also often been involved in extensive work regarding legislative production as part of the legal reforms undertaken in the country over recent years. For further information, please contact: timorleste@vdalegalpartners.com
Sector expertise :
- Agribusiness
- Aviation
- Associations
- Banks
- Cooperatives
- Defence
- Distribution
- Energy
- Fast moving consumer goods
- Foundations
- Funds
- Healthcare
- Insurance
- IPSS, ONGDs and other Public Interest entities
- Life sciences
- Mining
- Oil&Gas
- Ports and airports
- Private equity & venture capital
- Public administration
- Public sector companies
- Rail Infrastructures
- Real estate
- Regulatory entities
- Road infrastructures
- Shipping
- Social Enterprises and Businesses
- Space
- Technology & innovation
- Telecoms
- Tourism
- Water and waste
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking & Finance | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Capital Markets | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Competition & EU | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Governance | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Energy & Natural Resources | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Information, Communication & Technology | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Intellectual Property Litigation | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Intellectual Property Transactions | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Health | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Litigation & Arbitration | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Corporate and M&A | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Oil & Gas | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Environment | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Projects | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Public law | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Real Estate | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Tax | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Transport | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Restructuring & Insolvency | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Investigations & White Collar | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Labour | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Social Economy & Human Rights | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 | |
Digital Frontiers | vieiradealmeida@vda.pt | +351 213 113 400 |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 300+Languages
English French Portuguese SpanishOther
Other offices : Porto Other offices : Timor-Leste Other offices : Angola Other offices : Cape Verde Other offices : Equatorial Guinea Other offices : Mozambique Other offices : Sao Tome and PrincipeDiversity
Corporate responsibility and sustainability are a part of VdA’s history. VdA became a pioneer in the legal market when we launched a widely awarded program that reflects our strong commitment to the Community and includes extensive pro bono work and neutralization of the carbon footprint, activities that we monitor and report in accordance with internationally recognized indicators and standards.
We have long invested in sustainability, establishing specific and measurable goals and acting in accordance with the Principles of the United Nations Global Compact. We were among the first 600 undertakings worldwide to adhere to the SDG Ambition Program, because we are deeply committed to helping achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Comparative Guides
-
Portugal: Lending & Secured Finance
Published: April 2023
Authors: Benedita AiresMaria Carrilho Roberto Ornelas Monteiro
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Lending & Secured Finance laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Portugal: Pharmaceutical Advertising
Published: December 2023
Authors: Francisca PaulouroAna Isabel Lopes
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Pharmaceutical Advertising laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Portugal: Public Procurement
Published: February 2024
Authors: Rodrigo Esteves de OliveiraCatarina Pinto Correia
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Public Procurement laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
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Angola: Public Procurement
Published: February 2024
Authors: Ana Marta Castro Paulo Pinheiro
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Public Procurement laws and regulations applicable in Angola.
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Portugal: Securitisation
Published: March 2024
Authors: Benedita AiresSara Santos Dias
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Securitisation laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Voluntary Carbon Market: Emerging regulations within the EU and Portugal
Published: February 2024
Authors: Assunção Cristas João Almeida Filipe Carolina Vaza
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Data privacy and data protection
- Dispute resolution
- Energy and natural resources
- EU and competition
- Fraud and white-collar crime
- Insolvency and restructuring
- Intellectual property
- Projects and project finance
- Public law
- Real estate and construction
- Tax
- TMT
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Employment
- Porto: Leading commercial firms
- Transport
Firm Rankings
- Angola > Foreign firms
- Mozambique > Foreign law firms
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Angola > Local firms